Gervonta Davis made headlines this week for saying he will retire from the sport of boxing at the end of 2025. Promoter Bob Arum, who has been in the sport for almost 60 years, has shared his thoughts on the announcement.
‘Tank’ Davis has 30 wins from 30 fights and only two opponents have heard the final bell before losing on points. He has punched his way to becoming one of the most lucrative stars in the sport as well as holding titles in three weight classes.
Currently WBA Lightweight World Champion, Davis has fought just once this year, knocking out previously undefeated Frank Martin. He returns to the ring in March of 2025 to defend his belt against super-featherweight titlist Lamont Roach Jr.
At the launch press conference for the card, he said he wouldn’t be fighting past the end of 2025.
“After next year I’m out of it. Out of this sport.”
Speaking to Kristyna Ramirez, veteran promoter Arum supported the move by ‘Tank’, saying:
“I think it’s very intelligent.”
Arum’s extended thoughts on the matter come from a place of safety, recognising the dangers and sacrifices the sport requires from fighters.
“Boxing is not an easy sport. It’s a very dangerous sport, like professional football. You get players in professional football at the top of their game who decide to retire because they don’t wanna get hurt, like Barry Sanders was an example.
I can understand where Gervonta Davis realises that boxing is dangerous and also that he has to give up a lot to stay in condition. It’s very, very hard. If he’s made enough money in the sport, I think the wise thing for him is to retire and do what he wants to do. I think he wants to be in the real estate business. I don’t fault that. I think it’s very intelligent.”
If ‘Tank’ follows through on his promise, fans will hope he squeeze two fights in after Roach, particularly one against fellow lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson.
Should he stick around, there’s little doubt that he has the talent to become one of the very best.
